Abstract

Extrahepatic obstruction of the portal vein, resulting in portal hypertension, may cause extensive collateral circulation at the porta hepatis. These collateral veins may compress and narrow the common bile duct, sometimes causing obstructive jaundice. Until recently, ERCP and percutaneous angiography have been used to diagnose choledochal varix. Now, MR cholangiography is replacing the diagnostic role of ERCP. This imaging has the advantage of obtaining angiography at the same time. We present a 62-year-old male patient, in whom choledochal varix accompanying choledocholithiasis, was diagnosed by MR cholangiography and contrast-enhanced MR angiography. (Korean J Gastrointest Endosc 2003;27:96⁣99)

• Keywords: Choledochal varix, MR cholangiography, MR angiography